LestersLegends.com

Sidney Rice Has Hip Surgery

Aug 24, 2010

Image courtesy of Icon SMI

I was a little concerned with Sidney Rice’s hip in July (click to read article). He went from the #5 rank in February to #7 in April as I came to the conclusion that the Vikings would run more in 2010.

In mid-July I bounced him down to #14 as the hip injury began to trouble me. In my most recent rankings two weeks ago, he dipped down to #19 as the hip and a possible contract dispute as the cause for the slide.

Now there are rumors (via Judd Zulgad’s Twitter) that he may undergo surgery to repair his hip. This procedure could cost him half the season. Until we hear otherwise, it’s time to start preparing for the worst. You can no longer risk taking Rice as one of your top two WRs. Even taking him as a WR3 is risky.

Meanwhile, Bernard Berrian should start rapidly climbing the draft board. With Rice’s hip issue and Percy Harvin’s migraine issues, Berrian could easily find himself as the team’s number one receiver. Brett Favre went to Berrian early and often in the NFC title game against the Saints. He would not hesitate to go back to him.

The Vikings are taking a look at Javon Walker, but don’t waste your time with him. Greg Lewis, who was on the receiving end of the ESPY Play of the Year, is far more likely to pick up the scraps should Rice and Harvin miss time.

****UPDATE****Star Tribune is reporting that Sidney Rice did have hip surgery. If you already had your draft and picked Rice, try to get Bernard Berrian. Don’t worry about Brett Favre. He will be fine with Harvin, Rice, Shiancoe, Greg Lewis, etc.